German Halloween Embossed Postcard with Witch's Wand, Jack-O-Lantern, and Elves

Early 20th-century Halloween postcards, like The Halloween Witch's Wand, captured the evolving nature of the holiday from its ancient, superstitious roots to a more whimsical celebration. This period saw the popularization of imagery that blended traditional folklore with playful elements. Witches, once fearsome figures, were often depicted in a more benign or mischievous light, engaged in enchanting activities, while elves or mischievous sprites underscored the holiday's association with the supernatural and hidden realms. The inclusion of a pumpkin, already a recognized symbol, further solidifies its placement within the established Halloween iconography of the era.